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Music Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Music instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Richard

"knows his stuff, would def recommend"

New York, NY teacher:
Grady T.

Review by Mike H

"Jimmy is the best. After learning to play the guitar on my own, he helped me correct many poor habits, and understand how to get a better sound. He introd

uced me to music theory, and helped me learn my way around the instrument. He breaks down very complex information and makes it understandable. I learned more from him in a few months than years of searching around the internet."

...

New York, NY teacher:
James R.

Review by Nancy

"My 14 year old daughter loves music lessons from Ophelia. I can say this is the first time my daughter has ever expressed this much interest in music. I w

as glad I was able to find Ophelia through another friend of mine whose daughter also learns from Ophelia. Whenever Ophelia teaches a new piece of music, she goes over the composer's history with her, teaches the theory behind the piece, and does a ton of musicianship training. The lessons are truly worth their cost. It makes my daughter learn so much, just as if she was going to school. I've got to say, Ophelia is worth her price tag. Anywhere else with this kind of private music training would probably go for at least $100 per 45 minute or more."

...

New York, NY teacher:
Ophelia T.

Review by Masood

"Jason is such a great instructor and he loves teaching the drums. His vast knowledge of the subject is far superior that anyone that I have worked with.

You won't be disappointed."

...

New York, NY teacher:
Jason T.

Review by Lisabel

"It’s true what the other reviews say about her kindness and patience. Lenna is a warm, thoughtful and generous human being. She also happens to be a gif

ted teacher and skilled cellist. She is able to correct tiny details in my playing that make a huge difference in sound. Better yet, she approaches it in a way that I might be able to make those corrections for myself, by asking me what I heard first and listening to my observations. Also her approach to practice and playfulness is something I aim to use in many aspects of my life."

...

New York, NY teacher:
Lenna P.

Review by Charles

"Charles has been a wonderful piano teacher to my son. He is a gifted and skilled pianist. His knowledge and patience is evident at each lesson. We are luc

ky to have found him!

Cathy G"

...

New York, NY teacher:
Charles C.

Review by Noel

"Karmyn was very sweet and encouraging to my 12 year old daughter."

New York, NY teacher:
Karmyn T.

Review by Gulissa

"He is great teacher , he style of teaching is unique."

New York, NY teacher:
Yakov D.

Review by Jake

"Carla is professional and SUPER responsible! She has taught me tons of things I could not figure out when I was learning by myself and has made every less

About Gregory H.

About Gregory

As a younger brother at the age of five, I began studying the piano because my older sister did. After my foundation in music strengthened I fell in love with the trumpet. At first, each note took time to develop and I enjoyed the challenge. The trumpet allowed me to travel all over the Southeast later in life and even to China with a 1940's Radio Show. I enjoyed many top-level bands the kindled my love and passion for good music. I want to share that kindling with my students in a nurturing and guiding situation, just like my teachers gave me. I used to go to lessons and become so motivated and inspired that I thought I could change the world. I always knew that I would want to give back exactly that. As my performance opportunities grew into venues like Churchill Grounds, The Rialto, and The Variety Playhouse in Atlanta

and Radio City Music Hall, 54 Below, The Jazz Standard, Bowery Ballroom, Shapeshifter and Flushing Town Hall in New York, my fire for wanting to develop my teaching did also. I was always thinking back to what my old teachers gave me, inspiration. I then understood that inspiration is the key to success in life.

*** Lesson Details ***Lessons will be something the student looks forward to every week. We will work through common method books and learn material that the student has an interest in. For example, some students want to learn to play high notes, a popular song, improvise, or write their own songs. I am a laid back guy, but I do expect effort in the lessons and at home. I believe whatever you put into music is what you get out of it, and I will inspire and motivate the student to get as much out of the lessons as they can. Students will create, with my advisement, and update short term and long term goals every few months.

*** Specialties ***I specialize in jazz and classical music. I use many common methods depending on how the student tends to learn the best, and will even combine different methods if the student requires it.

...

Reviews

Robert M. July 31, 2017·Trumpet·In studio

I have had several lessons so far with Gregory and as an experienced trumpet player can recommend him extremely highly.
I am getting back into the trumpet following a gap after playing for 10 years when I was at high school. Gregory has really helped getting my technique and sound going again, I have been really pleased with my improvement. He has a great demeanour and has been great fun to work with. He is also an excellent player, and is highly reliable and easy to schedule with.

Nicolas February 11, 2017·Piano·In home

Greg is supportive, patient and has a great understanding of how to approach the student to make the lesson interesting.

Donna January 29, 2017··

Greg loves music and inspiring others to love it too! While teaching music, he also teaches his students to work hard to reach their goals while having fun along the way. Awesome professional!

Gregory H.

Gregory H.

About Thomas V.

About Thomas

Currently Thomas is an Orchestra Director in Merrick Public Schools, and has previous experience as a Music Teacher in New York City.

Thomas has vast experience as a professional performer and has played with countless acts across many different Genres of music.

Thomas is an experienced private instructor and will bring the best out of every student. Experienced will all ages, skill levels, music styles, special needs, and everything else that comes along with teaching.

Thomas holds a Bachelors Degree in Music Education from Hofstra University, as well as an Assosiates Degree in Music Perforance from NCC.

...

Reviews

Laura January 11, 2018·Piano·In home

Great teacher! Both my kids love him. He's patient, great with kids, prepared and talented. Can't say enough great things!

Dylan November 18, 2017·Piano·In home

My experience with Thomas has been great! My son can get distracted easily and Thomas keeps his attention and demonstrates the right balance of patience and firmness to keep my son engaged while letting him know the importance of practice and proper technique. He was definitely the right choice for my son:)

John November 13, 2017·Guitar·In home

Thomas is great at helping you get to your goal

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Thomas V.

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Thomas V.

Massapequa, NY 11758

(35)

starting at

$41
/ 30-min

About Cole K.

About Cole

On any given day you may find Cole K. improvising in a small club in Brooklyn, circuit-bending a Speak And Spell, or arranging horn parts for pop stars. He is a trumpet player, electronic musician, and composer living in Brooklyn, NY. K. is currently involved with a variety of projects including chamber indie band Cuddle Magic, People’s Champs (west African influenced dance music), and his own solo project for trumpet and laptop. He, along with The Superpowers Horns, arranged and recorded the horn parts for Beyonce Knowles’ two most recent albums (4 and Beyonce.) He attended New England Conservatory of Music where he received a Bachelors degree in Jazz Studies.

Cole tailors each lesson to the students needs. From learning the fundamentals of your instrument to expressing your individual creativity, the process is focused and fun. C

ole has taught 4 year olds to write songs and 40 year old how to play jazz trumpet.

...

Reviews

John N. November 11, 2014·Trumpet·In home

This Cole is King! I would give Cole 10 stars if it were possible. I had lessons with Cole in the summer of 2014 on the trumpet and let me tell you the guy is a giant on trumpet. I learned so much. I learned more in a summer's lessons with Cole than most people get in years. He made learning trumpet a lot of fun but at the same time I leaned basic skills, like how to keep beat and count. Can't say enough.

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Cole K.

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Cole K.

New York, NY 10036

(1)

starting at

$45
/ 30-min

About Laura K.

About Laura

Music is definitely the universal language, and there isn't a genre I don't love; it's important to me that that aspect be brought to lessons, as well! From humble New Jersey beginnings to an opera career, I've seen the power of what music can do!

Whether it's opera, musical theater, folk, rock, or just public speaking, anything YOU love to do, I would love to teach you! Having taught all ages and levels, from first graders to adults, from someone who's never sung a note in his or her life to semi-professionals, I cater my lessons to what YOU as a student need and are interested in.

Lessons shouldn't be a chore - I like to foster an environment you look forward to being a part of! I also think that music, like any sport, is hard work, and takes seriously practice; even hobbies take concentration and application! I understand and can

work with many schedules and work loads, but I expect my students to put at least half the effort into their lessons that I do!

...

Reviews

Megan October 15, 2017·Singing·In studio

Laura is a great teacher! Her lessons are fun and super helpful. Would definitely recommend.

Mimi October 11, 2017·Singing·In studio

Laura is a wonderful voice instructor! You can tell that she is very knowledgeable about music and voice overall. She makes my lessons very fun, but also informative at the same time. They are not just technical lessons about how to sing. Laura incorporates different teaching styles to accommodate her students' way of learning, and also works with you on the style of music you prefer. The only thing I hope for more of out of my lessons is to have more time singing, but I am a beginner and Laura makes sure you strengthen your foundations first in order to support your voice!

Annika October 11, 2017·Singing·In studio

Laura is absolutely fantastic! She will work with you on your singing voice from the ground up. As someone coming in with a bit of singing experience already, it is SO GREAT to revisit the basics, and to work with someone who is so invested in helping you find the healthiest version of your voice. I am looking forward to taking more lessons with her!

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Laura K.

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Laura K.

New York, NY 10036

(14)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Martin N.

About Martin

Hello students and parents!

I have been teaching bass, guitar, and piano for over 10 years and have been playing all those instruments for over 12 years. I have experience teaching kids as young as five as well as adults. I enjoy having a variety of students.

I received a Bachelors in Music from Manhattan School of Music where my major was Jazz Bass Performance. I also studied a wide range of other subjects including piano, composition, and arranging. I am currently in my second year of a Masters in Music Education at Teachers College (Columbia University).

I am very passionate about music as well as teaching and I want to inspire my students.

I play with a variety of artists in New York City and have toured extensively both nationally and internationally.

I look forward to helping you grow as a musician and learning from you as well!

All the best,Martin

*** Lesson Details ***My primary mission is to help you accomplish the goals you have set for yourself. Within the first lesson I want to learn what you hope to achieve. I always ask my students what music they love and want to learn more about.

I want to use the music that you connect with to help you grow on your instrument. I will also teach you the techniques needed to play the instrument and expose you to the different styles possible on the instrument.

I tailor my teaching to each student's needs, concerns, strengths and weaknesses. I use a variety of teaching tools, including books and recordings, based on what I think will help you.

I am very patient, fun, and engaging. I guarantee that within 1 lesson you will feel inspired and ready to embark on an exciting musical journey.

*** Studio Equipment ***The studio lessons take place in the living room with a piano, upright bass, and guitar. Seating is available.

*** Travel Equipment ***I use public transportation. I expect the student to provide an instrument and if possible, the book we are working through. Otherwise I will provide the book.

Martin N.

Martin N.

About Ramona D.

About Ramona

I'm a professional musician and audio engineer. I'm a classically trained pianist and I offer lessons in piano, guitar, voice, music theory, music recording, music performance and songwriting.

I received my music education from The Brooklyn Music School, Cornell University and the The Institute of Audio Research.

I perform in original & cover bands as a keyboardist and back up singer. I also do work for hire session recordings and have composed music for commercials and short films.

As an audio engineer, I record, mix, edit, arrange, master and program demos, EPs albums, mix-tapes, karaoke tracks and ringtones. I also produce as well. I co-own a project recording studio in Brooklyn, NY called Radian Studios.

I'm very passionate about what I do and I guarantee a creative, enjoyable and fulfilling experience!

*** Le

sson Details ***For piano and voice, I incorporate basic music theory methods but I also focus on ear training as well. My ultimate goal when teaching is for the student to have a visceral experience while playing or singing.

For audio engineering, I go over audio recording techniques and the tools & equipment needed to produce a professional sounding song.

I enjoy imparting my knowledge of music to others and I demonstrate that enthusiasm in my teaching style. I love relating what I'm teaching a student to his/her learning style. Figuring out how someone learns is a key component to my method and I'm a better instructor because of it.

*** Studio Equipment ***lives in a brownstone three story home with recording studio f/w 88 keys seating for parents

Ramona D.

Ramona D.

About Imraan K.

About Imraan

I'm a pro saxophonist in NYC, currently performing both in the NYC area and internationally.

In the last 5 years, I have been performing with various bands in the area, spanning rock, funk, soul, Latin, and especially jazz. Performing has taken me to France, Switzerland, Italy, China, and most recently aboard luxury cruise ships.

I have been teaching privately and through a private music school for the past 10 years.

*** Lesson Details ***I offer three distinct types of lessons.

1) For 7-12 grade music students, I offer lessons geared towards preparing you for the NYSSMA competition. We work on the basic requirements for participation, can work together to narrow down the options and select the right piece for you to perform, and improve your musicality as a whole. I have sent many students to NYSSMA, all with positive res

ults. 2) My more expansive lessons are for beginner musicians and up. We work as basically as scales, modes, and fingerings, as well as a little bit of jazz history. As you progress, we dig deeper into jazz theory, focusing on the standards and improvisational theory. Like anything else, you get out of it what you put into it, and as long as you are willing to work towards becoming a better player, you will. 3) For NON-SAXOPHONE students with an interest in jazz improvisational techniques, I offer jazz improvisation lessons. This requires an intermediate level of proficiency on your instrument. We cover standards, different techniques to apply over different patterns of chord changes, and even basic elements of composition.

I like to keep the atmosphere light and positive during lessons, so we can have a good time and still be learning. I love to work on appropriate music that the student suggests, or has an interest in. Pending the level of the student, we may even arrange for special appearances at some of my performances.

Reviews

Sal November 4, 2016·Saxophone·In home

An excellent teacher. He keeps my son Sal interested and engaged with every lesson. Sal gets to choose some of the music he works on, and Imraan makes it into a lesson. Sal has been doing much better in band class, I recommend him!

Livia C. February 19, 2014·Saxophone·

Excellent

My son Nicholas, 10 yrs old, has been taking saxophone lessons with Imraan for about a month. Searching for a young motivated teacher who is up to date with todays music is very difficult. My fear was for Nicholas to get discouraged in his saxophone playing and music with a non motivated instructor.
Imraan has been the perfect match for Nick. He is not only an excellent saxophone player but a great instructor. He motivates my son with his saxophone playing, has patients with his teachings and with kids, is up to date with todays music and most important, my son cant wait for his next lesson.

Imraan, Im glad we met you and look forward to hearing my son play in concert with you someday.

Hope D. February 17, 2014·Saxophone·

it is refreshing and exciting at each session.

he is very focused and thorough. quite professional and polite.
he makes complex things with the sax seems simple. I enjoy his teaching style. I would recommend him to anyone who desires to learn to play the sax, or for advance lessons.

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Imraan K.

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Imraan K.

Mount Vernon, NY 10553

(4)

starting at

$20
/ 30-min

About Kaley P.

About Kaley

I would love to help you in your musical journey! Whether you're learning piano for the first time, preparing for college auditions or an important gig, would like to understand music theory, need help with songwriting, or are trying to take your band's set to the next level, my knowledge and experience from both academia and the music industry can help you.

I am a professional touring pianist and play for an artist named SZA. I have played shows and festivals all over the world, including Coachella, Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, London, and Bulgaria.

I've been studying piano for 20 years, and trained as a jazz pianist at New York University, graduating with a Bachelor in Music.

...

Reviews

Jackson January 25, 2018·Songwriting·Online

I was struggling to string together lyrics a while back and when I came to Kaley for help she guided me in a direction I’m more than grateful for. Writing for me is therapy and she made that process a lot easier.

Paul May 24, 2017·Piano·In home

As a Self taught musician, I have struggled with increasing my level of understanding of the mechanics needed to truly play the Piano.

My First lesson with Kaley laid the seeds of turning these things that work against me to working for me. I am very Grateful and excited for more next lesson!!!

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Kaley P.

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Kaley P.

Brooklyn, NY 11220

(2)

starting at

$50
/ 30-min

About Alexei N.

About Alexei

Prior to working in software, I played in many classical, folk and rock ensembles throughout the country. I took private violin / viola lessons for 8 years, and private guitar lessons for 5 years. I was the principal violist in my high school orchestra, 1st violin player in the Greater Westchester Youth Symphony and a violist in the USC Concert Orchestra in Los Angeles. I've been in the classical realm for long enough to realize that picking up and playing a guitar is not the same as playing violin and practicing it for many hours.

I started a rock band with my friends in high school, for which I played lead guitar and the occasional drum kit. Playing guitar (solo or in a band) is a lot like playing violin but, the learning curve isn't as steep. You only need to know a few guitar fundamentals before you're ready to play your favorite

rock and acoustic songs. My lessons and teaching style reflect this.

After 4 years of providing guitar instruction in both the group and personal setting, I think I've figured out a way to get my students up and playing while providing the minimum amount of theory and technique instruction necessary to do so. I'll always ask you what your favorite genre of music is and then craft lessons and a curriculum around that. You'll always end each lesson with a tangible skill or song that you can put into practice right away. If we spend the first half of a lesson learning some chords, you'll learn a song that uses those chords in the second half. If you opt instead to tell me a song you'd like to learn, I'll teach you the song and make sure to emphasize the technique and theory components that the song uses.

Playing guitar should be fun, and taking lessons shouldn't feel like a chore. I'll teach you anything you want to learn as long as you approach each lesson with a clear mind and willingness to get better.

...

Reviews

Leslie August 11, 2017·Acoustic Guitar·In home

I never played an instrument before my lessons with Alexei but he was a great teacher and I learned a lot of chords each lesson. By now, I can confidently play in front of my friends and have them sing along, and also be able to improvise and add my own rendition to each piece. This was more than what I set out to do when I started taking lessons, so I'm very happy! Alexei is also very flexible with his times and was able to accommodate my hectic schedule. I wish he hadn't moved to the East Coast!

Julie August 11, 2017·Guitar·In home

Alexei has been a great instructor for my son over the last several months! He knows most of the music my son listens to and has been able to help teach him how to play along to many of his favorite songs. My son has improved substantially and is excited every week for his lessons. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for an engaging and knowledgable teacher for their child!

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Alexei N.

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Alexei N.

New York, NY 10022

(2)

starting at

$20
/ 30-min

About Stephanie J.

About Stephanie

I am a professional opera and musical theater performer. I also am one of the founders of a wedding acoustic band called Lavender Rose Music.

I have been performing since the age of 5 and have sung with many regional and Off-Broadway companies since moving to NYC. I have a Bachelors Degree in Music Education and a Masters Degree from The Manhattan School of Music in Vocal Performance.

I specialize in teaching opera/classical, musical theatre, and pop/jazz acoustic.

I want to help you discover your singing voice and teach you how to sing with a healthy technique. Whether you are preparing for a big audition, or wanting to learn a song that you have always dreamed of singing, I will help you to learn it in a fun, exciting, and healthy way!

...

Reviews

Frances September 8, 2017·Opera Voice·In home

Stephanie is a wonderful teacher!

I always was interested in learning to sing opera and was a complete beginner when I first starting taking lessons with her. We did our lessons at my house, which was always really helpful and convenient (she can also do online lessons, too!).

Stephanie was always so patient and encouraging, even when I had trouble with certain songs. She genuinely seemed happy for me whenever I made progress! She also helped me a lot with breathing techniques, which is something I always struggled with.

Stephanie is one of the best teachers I’ve ever had and would highly recommend her to anyone!

Pam September 2, 2017·Singing·In home

AMAZING!! My daughter (15 yrs) took lessons with Stephanie last year, and we could not be happier! Stephanie is fun, kind, and filled with positive energy. She is EXTREMELY knowledgeable with a Masters degree from the Manhattan School of Music and several years of teaching experience. My daughter improved dramatically and gained a lot of confidence along the way. I wholeheartedly recommend lessons!!

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